The political drama in the Lagos State House of Assembly continues to play out, as factions have emerged with both sides claiming legitimacy.
In a bid to justify his return to the position of Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, the now embattled Speaker, declared that his successor, Mojisola Meranda, had resigned from her position; a claim that has only deepened the confusion and power struggle within the state’s legislative arm.
In an interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” Obasa, ousted by 36 of the 40-member House, maintained that he remains the legitimate Speaker, brushing off his reported removal as invalid. His stance adds a new twist to the ongoing crisis.
“Meranda herself declared her resignation,” Obasa said, referencing a peace meeting held over the weekend at the Lagos House in Marina. According to him, the meeting, attended by key party leaders, saw Meranda stepping down in front of witnesses.
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“When my security was withdrawn without my consent, did I complain?” Obasa questioned. “Now, when someone resigns from office, the associated paraphernalia is taken away. So the question arises: Have you also resigned? Let them present the resignation letter.”
His words painted a picture of a power struggle rife with political maneuvering and personal stakes. Obasa’s insistence on his legitimacy grew sharper when he added, “If I were to resign, would I still be here? I’m sure you’d still address me as Speaker, even though we’ve never had a conversation before.”
The embattled lawmaker’s defiance wasn’t limited to media appearances. Earlier on Thursday, he arrived at the Assembly complex under heavy security and presided over a plenary session with just four members present — a stark contrast to the 36 members who voted for his removal.
“I have never been removed. I am not against removal, but it must follow the rules of the House and the Constitution,” Obasa asserted.
Source: Ripples